WASHINGTON — From violent attacks, to burglaries and street crime, the key to preventing them is awareness: Someone has to notice what’s going on and report it.

The Prince William County Police Department wants to help people learn ways to help, so it’s hosting a Neighborhood Watch training and meeting Wednesday night.

“With all that is going on in the world, the Neighborhood Watch program is a fantastic way to get people thinking about crime prevention in their communities,” police spokeswoman Sharon Richardson said in a news release.

The Crime Prevention Unit hosting the event wants to make sure it has enough training materials on hand for everyone planning to attend. So please RSVP to ksawicki@pwcgov.org.

Along with a Q&A session, police expect to discuss “crime reporting, emergency preparedness, Watch patrolling, and active violence,” according to the news release.

Full details below:

Wednesday, Dec. 9

7 p.m.

Prince William County Development Services Building

Room 107 A&B

5 County Complex Court

Woodbridge, Va. 22192

The meeting is expected to last an hour. People with questions can call 703-792-7270.